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Foundation trainees welcomed into HCSA family

Hospital doctors’ union HCSA has officially thrown open its doors to every hospital doctor – accepting all grades from Foundation up for the first time in its history.

It follows a momentous rule change on the 28th April when members of the TUC-affiliated professional association and trade union voted to extend membership to Foundation grades. It had previously accepted their colleagues in Core and Specialty training and all post-trainee specialty doctors.

The change marks the latest stage in the HCSA’s drive to ensure that all hospital doctors, no matter what level they are at, are protected by workplace representation and the benefits of a strong and effective union organisation.

HCSA President Professor Ross Welch said: “We are delighted to now welcome into the fold those thousands of fellow hospital doctors just starting out on their careers.

“This was a natural next step following our recognition in England with NHS Employers. Ever since then we have fielded queries from Foundation grade doctors asking when our rules will change so they could join.

“We shall now seek to represent the whole family of hospital doctors and ensure that all grades are given the best possible support and advice. This is a major advance.”

HCSA General Secretary Eddie Saville said: “We hear repeated stories of those who for whatever reason are not in a trade union and are left vulnerable and without protection or organisation at work.

“With HCSA’s membership growing, a fresh and modern approach to membership engagement, and a dedicated team at national negotiations representing hospital doctors, now is a great time to join an ever stronger organisation that is going forward with purpose.

“It’s a fantastic, positive development that we hope will bring more fellow clinicians into trade union membership. With the growing pressures on the service, you never know when you might need our support.”